VoIP, what's it all mean??
by Gary Woods

VoIP is an abbreviation that is really catching on. It stands for Voice Over Internet Protocol and means that you can use your high speed Internet connection to talk anywhere in the world. I first encountered this concept several years ago with something called the iPhone. With iPhone and your computer's soundcard plus a cheap microphone you could talk to people around the world. The problem was it was pretty haphazard and very random, so unless you made an appointment with somebody you ended up talking to anyone that was waiting in line.

Since then VoIP has been used by major corporations circumventing the Telcos and saving tons of money doing it. The big problem with VoIP is that it was a pain when you traveled. Configuring and implementing the system usually meant you had to have an IT person travel with you and that can be expensive. Those IT guys eat a lot.

That was until there was Vonage http://www.vonage.com. To implement VoIP with Vonage all you need is a Cisco ATA-186 which they give you when you signup and a basic router which they'll supply for $39.99. Combine that with the high speed Internet in your hotel room or at home and you’re gabbing all day and night anywhere in the world for $39.99 per month. So if you travel a lot or use long distance a bunch it could be time to check out Vonage.

If you have any suggestions or questions for me please drop me a note at garyandlaury@santabarbaraproperties.com or see my column on the Internet at http://www.santabarbaraproperties.com or call me at (805) 729-0910